Sara Cox is undertaking a high-profile charity challenge known as the Great Northern Marathon Challenge. Here’s what’s publicly reported:
- Overview: She is attempting to cover 135 miles on foot over five days, running, jogging, and walking across four counties in northern England (from Kielder Forest near the Scottish border to Pudsey in Leeds). The event is part of BBC Radio 2’s support for BBC Children in Need, and the route spans multiple days with a mix of terrains and elevation. [BBC.co.uk coverage; BBC Children in Need page]
- Schedule and route: The challenge began in early November and was planned to conclude in mid-November, with a start at Kielder Forest and a finish in Pudsey, Leeds. The route is described as five marathons across five days, traversing moorlands and ridges typical of northern England. [BBC.co.uk; BBC Children in Need page]
- Training and preparation: Reports noted that Cox trained with a dedicated plan crafted by a professional trainer, including endurance work and strategies for walking hills and managing a demanding day-by-day schedule. She reportedly faced physical and emotional strain as the challenge progressed. [Runner’s World feature; BBC coverage]
- Public engagement and fundraising: The challenge has drawn substantial listener support, with donations surpassing the £1 million mark, and continued media coverage highlighting the fundraising total and Cox’s emotional moments. [Radio Today; BBC coverage]
- How to follow or participate: Details were provided for following the challenge live on BBC Radio 2 during the event, and for taking part in related fundraising efforts via Children in Need channels. [BBC Radio 2 coverage; BBC Children in Need page]
If you’d like, I can narrow this down to:
- A day-by-day recap of milestones and distances covered.
- The current fundraising total and notable moments from the latest updates.
- How to listen live or contribute to the fundraising effort.
